Counterfeit 101

 Obverse 1: Cast from Genuine Obverse

Reverse A: Cast from Genuine Reverse

Obverse 1                                                            Reverse A

Comments: Bold blob like stars and irregular reverse devices typical of a contemporary cast counterfeit. Weight is 0.9 grams (mint spec is 1.24 grams) with wide coarse reeding and normal coin turn die alignment. Lead is likely base metal.

One can immediately see the difficult with casting contemporary counterfeit half dimes due to small coin diameter and the tiny device elements. This fact coupled with a small profit opportunity from the half dime denomination leads to few specimens being known.

Plate Coin: John Brandauer Collection, VF-EF Grade Estimate